We have three children, one dog, and two cats.
The cats reside in the basement and keep to themselves. Many people don't even know they exist.
The three children reside in the entire house along with the dog. Lindsay and I try to find places of solitude here, but alas we are forever found...for help, to be shown something, for food or drink, by a scream, for a hug, a wail, a cry, or simply sought out...for whatever reason.
The dog, an 8-year-old Hungarian Viszla named Sasa, belonged to Lindsay before she and I were married. When I first met Sasa I found that she was a loving animal who adored people. Sasa and I have grown close as she is such a good dog.
Lindsay and I knew that Sasa would be good with the kids. When Ava and Henry were babies Sasa was protective of them as any dog would be yet she didn't particularly care for the ways babies tugged at her ears or tail or skin. She certainly disliked any screaming or tantrums. In fact, since we've had kids Sasa has aged quite a bit, sporting a face full of white hairs...poor Sasa.
Along comes Ella. At first, Sasa kept her usual distance from the baby...and rightfully so. At that time Ella had much more range of motion and more opportunities to carry out what Sasa expected to happen to her ears, tail, and skin.
As it turned out, SMA begin taking effect of Ella's muscles, and she never really got the chance to "play" with Sasa in the usual manner. She did, however, develop an affinity and love for the dog unlike I've ever seen. Ella adores her Sasa.
I think Sasa recognized early on that Ella was not going to follow the same path that Ava and Henry did. They say dogs have a sense about such things as diseases; and when people, in their lives, really need help. I can certainly attest to this phenomena as I watch the bonding occur between Ella and Sasa.
Sasa now sleeps with Ella most of the night. She had always slept at the foot of our bed (under the covers!) Sasa now lies down while Ella uses her as a way to be propped up on the bed or couch while watching TV. Sasa seems to know that when Ella is right up close to her face she will not pull on her skin or ears; and if she does manage to grab a hold, Sasa seems to know that she will do no harm.
Sasa is our first "baby"...she is a sweet, gentle, kind soul and has been with us through so many changes. She has provided our family with great joys and we are fortunate to have her with us. She is now taking delight in Ava and Henry as they are growing older and are developing a better appreciation for her.
Her relationship with Ella, however, was a bit unexpected. While I knew that she would be protective of her I am truly amazed as I witness how Mother Nature is orchestrating the relationship between a young girl with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and her beloved dog.
We love you Sasa...
